Sea Otters' Comeback Helps Prevent Coastal Erosion in California

New study reveals the reintroduction of the once nearly extinct sea otters has led to a dramatic decrease in erosion rates and a rebound of marshlands in Elkhorn Slough.

Sea otters, once nearly hunted to extinction, are now playing a crucial role in preventing coastal erosion in California's Elkhorn Slough, according to a new study.
The otters prey on crabs that have been eroding the salt marshes, slowing the erosion almost to a halt.
The resurgence of sea otters has led to a dramatic decrease in erosion rates and a rebound of marshlands, offering a cost-effective natural solution to coastal erosion.
The study's findings underscore the far-reaching benefits that can cascade through an ecosystem when a top predator is reintroduced.
The study suggests that the reintroduction of a former top predator could yield similar benefits in other ecosystems worldwide.